In the bustling heart of 1920s New York City, young Amish woman Rachel Schpitendavel leaves her conservative home in Pennsylvania for the promise of a new life in Manhattan. Seeking to perform her religious dances, she unwittingly ends up at the chaotic Minsky's Burlesque Theatre. The theatre is filled with colorful and eccentric performers, including comedian Chick Williams and straight man Raymond Paine. Eager to find herself and prove her independence, Rachel gets drawn into the lively, often risqué world of burlesque, unaware of the stir she’s about to cause.

As Rachel's presence disrupts the tight-knit theatre community, both Chick and Raymond become captivated by her innocence and charm. They see in her a potential new star—a naive woman who can be molded into an entertainer. However, Rachel's arrival ignites concern from the conservative elements within the city, particularly from her overprotective father and local moral crusaders who oppose the burlesque scene. As tension mounts, the theatre faces the threat of being shut down, forcing everyone involved to confront their ideals and ambitions. The story hurtles toward a climactic moment, where the clash between traditional values and modern entertainment comes to a head in unexpected ways.